Lazaar Arrives At St. James' Park

Newcastle United have completed the signing of Moroccan defender Achraf Lazaar from Palermo

By Anthony Marshall - Newcastle United Managing Editor

Newcastle United have completed the signing of defender Achraf Lazaar from Palermo for an undisclosed fee.

The 24-year-old Morocco international left-back has put pen to paper on a five-year deal at St. James' Park.

Lazaar came through the youth set-up at Italian club Varese and spent two years in the first team before joining Palermo in January 2014, initially on loan.

He helped the Rosanero win Serie B at the end of his first season and has been a regular in the top flight, making a total of 76 appearances and scoring three goals during his time at the Stadio Renzo Barbera.

"I am very happy to be at Newcastle United," said Lazaar.

"I'm proud to sign here because Newcastle is a great team in England."

Newcastle United manager Rafa Benitez added: "Achraf is a good, young player with international experience who has grown his game in Italy.

"He gives us width on the left, has a good left foot and will add great competition to the squad."